Smriti Mandhana has opened up about one of the most emotionally challenging phases of her career during the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup, revealing how pressure, self-doubt, and fear of failure deeply affected her mindset mid-tournament.
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Mandhana Reflects on Mid-Tournament Struggles
India’s campaign hit a rough patch after three consecutive losses, with the most painful defeat coming against England. Despite Mandhana’s fluent 88, India fell short by just four runs following a late collapse. That moment became central to the Smriti Mandhana World Cup disappointment, as she admitted to being haunted by her dismissal at a crucial stage.
Speaking on the RCB Podcast, Mandhana revealed she entered the tournament in excellent form but struggled to convert starts early on. Known for valuing her wicket in the first ten overs, she questioned her shot selection and decision-making. The internal battle intensified, turning the Smriti Mandhana World Cup disappointment into a deeply personal experience.
Pressure of a Home World Cup Took a Toll
Mandhana described how the loss to England affected her beyond the field. The day after the match, during the team’s flight, she remained silent and emotionally drained. The weight of expectations in a home World Cup amplified the Smriti Mandhana World Cup disappointment, making it the most pressure she had ever felt in her career.
She admitted fearing that a failure to qualify for the semi-finals would severely impact women’s cricket in India. That thought consumed her mentally, with sleepless nights and constant stress before the must-win clash against New Zealand. The Smriti Mandhana World Cup disappointment reflected not just individual frustration but a sense of responsibility toward the future of the game.
Redemption Against New Zealand Silenced Doubts
Under immense pressure, Mandhana responded with a stunning 109 off 95 balls against New Zealand. The innings marked a turning point, helping India regain momentum and easing the Smriti Mandhana World Cup disappointment that had built up over several matches.
She acknowledged the noise, criticism, and online trolling that often surrounds women’s cricket, but credited the team’s preparation and unity. The knock proved how quickly narratives change in sport, transforming Smriti Mandhana World Cup disappointment into resilience and redemption.
For Mandhana, the journey underscored the emotional demands of elite cricket, where self-belief can waver but character defines comebacks. The Smriti Mandhana World Cup disappointment ultimately became a story of mental strength, leadership, and rising above pressure on the biggest stage.
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